Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy’s own Harry Lester shocked the wrestling world by winning the 119 lb. world wrestling championship in the Cadet division (17 years old and under) at Lodz, Poland! In his first world competition, Lester was the only United States representative to win the gold! Israel Martinez of Illinois had the second best U.S. performance, earning a bronze medal at 127.75 lbs. Also from Ohio, Kyle Ott represented the United States at 110 lbs. and finished a respectable eighth in the world.

Lester, who is only 15, began a magical summer in April by going undefeated at the Cadet World Team Trials, held at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. His thrilling 10-9 victory over Chris Rodriguez, who was previously the #1 ranked 119 pounder in the country, earned him the right to represent the United States in the 1999 World Championships in Poland. Between April and August, while many students were enjoying a relaxing summer vacation, Harry trained extremely hard in hot wrestling rooms and convention centers across the country. This training paid big dividends. In June, as part of a team of CVCA wrestlers, he won the (scholastic style) NHSCA National Championship in Birmingham, Alabama. Then in July, Harry was outstanding again in capturing the (freestyle) National Championship in Fargo, North Dakota!

This training and competition set up Harry’s early August trip to Lodz, Poland for the 1999 Cadet Freestyle World Championships. Being in a foreign country was a bit of an adjustment for Harry, as he commented during one of his initial calls home.

"I made it to Poland OK, but the food is terrible and no one speaks English!" said Harry.

Lester went undefeated in the World Championships, winning an exciting semi-final bout against a tough Russian wrestler, in overtime! In the championship finals, Lester won by medical default, as his opponent was unable to continue due to injury.

On almost a side note, Harry is also a 2x state champion for CVCA, and will be shooting for his third straight state championship this winter. If you haven’t come out to any wrestling matches, you need to see this incredible athlete, and fine young man, compete. He is really something special. Throughout all of his success, Harry has maintained an attitude of Christ-like humility, which has been as amazing as his athletic prowess. He continues to work as if he had not even made varsity yet!

Congratulations Harry!!!!! CVCA is proud of you!!!!!!!